In a night filled with symbolism and familiar rhetoric, Donald Trump formally accepted the Republican nomination for the U.S. presidency on Thursday. Despite expectations of a renewed leader, he quickly reverted to his old anti-immigration stance. Speaking at the Fiserv Forum, Trump vowed to secure the border from day one and complete the construction of the wall with Mexico, reiterating his stance against undocumented immigration, according to the BBC.
His speech began with a more moderate tone as he called for unity: "I am running to be president of all Americans, not just half." However, the Republican swiftly shifted to his more well-known rhetoric. He predicted an "incredible victory" in the November presidential elections and addressed issues such as Venezuela, Cuba, gangs in El Salvador, immigration, and the economy.
Trump mentioned the Russian submarines that arrived in Cuba in June: "Nuclear submarines are operating 60 miles off the coast of Cuba. Did you know that? If I were running this country and we had nuclear submarines and Cuba, all the headlines would say: what’s wrong with our president?" he remarked.
Trump's Immigration Plans
The climax of his speech came when he referred to undocumented immigration as an "invasion" and promised to secure the border from day one of a potential return to the White House. "I will finish the wall, which I have largely built," he asserted, reiterating his 2016 commitment to construct an extensive barrier between the United States and Mexico.
Trump also promised to carry out "the largest deportation operation in the history of this country" and criticized the current administration's immigration policies, pledging a radical change in his approach to border security.
Foreign Policy Criticisms
In the realm of foreign policy, Trump accused the Biden administration of weakening the United States' position globally, citing the withdrawal from Afghanistan and conflicts in Ukraine and Taiwan. "I will end all international crises," he declared, promising to restore peace and American leadership on the global stage.
Finally, Trump called for unity and solicited the support of all voters, regardless of their past affiliations. "I promise to bring back the American dream," he concluded, inviting citizens to believe in a better future under his leadership.
The convention, which spanned four days, showcased the cohesion within the Republican Party, in stark contrast to the visible divisions among Democrats regarding Joe Biden's candidacy. Speakers, including family members, congressmen, and former advisors, portrayed Trump as a leader who loves his country and cares for its citizens, overlooking past controversies and his legal troubles.
One of the most emotional moments of the night was when Trump recounted the attack during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, thanking those present for their calm and paying tribute to Corey Comperatore, a volunteer firefighter who lost his life protecting others. This story revealed a vulnerable side of the former president, although he quickly returned to his usual rhetoric.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trump's Speech and Policies
Here are some common questions and answers that provide more insights into Donald Trump's recent speech and his proposed policies, particularly on immigration and foreign policy.
What did Trump promise regarding the U.S.-Mexico border?
Trump promised to secure the border from the first day of his potential return to the White House and to complete the construction of the wall with Mexico.
How did Trump criticize the current administration's immigration policies?
Trump criticized the Biden administration's immigration policies and pledged to carry out the largest deportation operation in U.S. history, promising a radical change in border security.
What foreign policy issues did Trump address in his speech?
Trump addressed the weakening of the U.S. position globally, citing the withdrawal from Afghanistan and conflicts in Ukraine and Taiwan. He promised to end all international crises and restore American leadership.